Seventeen passengers traveling by boat on the Calabar-Oron waterways have been abducted by suspected pirates, the Cross River State Police Command confirmed on Friday.
According to reports, the gunmen intercepted the boat en route to Oron in Akwa Ibom State, forcing passengers into their vessel before fleeing.
Police Public Relations Officer, Irene Ugbo, said the command has begun a search-and-rescue mission in collaboration with other security agencies.
“We are aware of the incident and efforts are on to ensure the victims are rescued unhurt. Security operatives have been deployed to track down the perpetrators,” Ugbo told journalists.
Rising Insecurity on Waterways
The Calabar-Oron corridor, which serves as a major transport link between Cross River and Akwa Ibom, has become notorious for frequent pirate attacks. Commuters often face delays, harassment, and extortion despite repeated assurances of improved security.
Stakeholders have called on the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and the Navy to intensify patrols and safeguard travelers who depend on the route for business and daily activities.
